The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said that Tropical Depression Querubin has weakened into a low pressure area. However, this low pressure area is interacting with several other weather systems, such as the shear line (the convergence of cold and warm winds that cause rain); and the northeast monsoon. Widespread heavy rains are forecast in the affected areas of the Philippines.
“Tropical Depression Querubin has weakened into a low pressure area but is likely to develop back into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours,” the Philippine weather bureau said in a report.
“We expect the low pressure area to interact with the shear line. Many areas in the eastern part of the country, especially Southern Luzon and even Eastern Visayas, will be affected,” said PAGASA deputy director for research and development Marcelino Villafuerte II.
As of 2 p.m. on December 18, the low pressure area was located 215 kilometers east-northeast of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. PAGASA weather expert Veronica Torres said the low pressure area will bring rain mainly over the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
Given the complex developments of the Querubin depression, residents and visitors to the Philippines should pay close attention to weather forecasts and update flight schedules regularly. They should bring raincoats and umbrellas and choose a suitable itinerary to ensure safety.
